Management Potential Analysis of Organic Rice Farmers Group in Chun District, Phayao Province

Abstract

     This research aimed to analyze the management potential of organic rice farmers group in Chun District, Phayao Province which is mixed research. The sample consisted of 191 organic rice farmers, which were calculated using Taro Yamane’s formula at an acceptable tolerance of 0.05. Data were collected using a simple random sampling method through a confidential interview schedule at 0.99 and using
a group discussion for representatives of farmers’ groups and in-depth interviews with representatives of government officials involved in the area. Data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics together with the SWOT Analysis technique. The results of the study revealed that the farmer group’s strength was having a clear management structure. Creating value savings for members and using a marketing strategy to lead the production. Weaknesses were that most of the board lacks knowledge of group management. And some farmers’ organic rice production has not been certified for organic rice standards. Opportunity found that Phayao province has set  a strategy for Chun district to be the source of organic rice production for export. as well as the demand for organic rice among both domestic and international consumers tends to increase continuously and threat was that the government’s organic rice promotion policy is not clear and continuous. Therefore, relevant agencies should focus on the development of agricultural groups by emphasizing the development of management knowledge. And focus on group processes to allow members to learn together in production and marketing as well as pushing new generations of farmers into the agricultural sector along with developing the potential of organic rice production and marketing at the same time.